WhatsApp down: Messaging app stops working around the globe

The WhatsApp messaging app has stopped working for thousands of people across the globe.

Users have taken to social media to query the issue, which has left an unconfirmed number of people unable to send or receive messages.

Though WhatsApp has a public Twitter account it has not posted anything there since 2016 and has not responded to the situation using it.

One person Tweeting at the account said: "I'm trying to send messages from last couple of minute and unable to send. I just uninstall and now unable to login. What's wrong with the messenger?"

The hashtag "WhatsApp Down" was being used heavily by those affected.

Some poked fun at the situation and commented how people were quick to vent about the issue on other online platforms.

WhatsApp's Facebook page has also provided no update despite the raft of complaints on social media.

Despite the outage not all those on the app have experienced problems though, with some still able to send messages.

Some who initially stated they were affected have also said normal service has returned for them.

The Standard has contacted WhatsApp for further details.

WhatsApp is used by more than one billion people across 180 countries, according to its website.

It allows people to message, voice call and video call for free as long as they have an internet connection.

Founded in 2009, it was launched as an alternative to traditional SMS text messages.

In 2014, it was acquired by Facebook in a deal worth around $19billion.